Columbia, Mo. passes partner registry

[ccharles000]

(Columbia, Missouri) By unanimous vote, Columbia city council has voted to establish a domestic partner registry for same-sex couples and opposite-sex couples who choose not to marry.

While registering does not offer any specific rights in the city, it could be used as proof of a relationship for anyone wishing to add a partner to their employee health benefits in companies that offer health insurance to domestic partners.

Under the law, a couple must pay a $25 fee to the Department of Public Health and Human Services, which will maintain the registry.

Couples must attest they have lived together for at least 6 months. Each partner must be at least 18 years old and be mentally competent to form a contract. Partners must not be related by blood any closer than would bar a marriage in Missouri. Nor can they be married to any other person.

The registry had the support of Mayor Darwin Hindman who said it shows “that this is an open, receptive community, tolerant community, of everybody. That’s important, I think for our self-respect and for the quality of life that we want to have in our community.”

The measure also had the support of the Columbia Human Rights Commission and a broad number of citizens who packed the council chamber to make impact statements before the vote.

One of them, a retired United Methodist pastor, received a standing ovation from the public gallery when he made an impassioned plea for passage.

“These, my brothers and sisters, are the last group that has not yet been given what is their right,” Rev. Dick Blount told the council. “That’s all we’re asking for. We’re not trying to make the issue complex.”

http://www.365gay.com/news/columbia-mo-passes-partner-registry/

[jumptheshadow]

1. Wow, there's been a lot of progress

When I went to Mizzou many moons again, a teacher was fired for being gay.

I went back this past fall and was amazed at the progress in the town.

Nice city.

[RayOfHope]

2. This is wonderful. I love Columbia, its a great town n/t

[floridablue]

3. Ahhhh remember when.

Girls had to wear a skirt or dress unless it was below 10 degrees.

All freshmen girls lived in Johnson Hall

Had to live in "approved" housing, dorm or fraternity house.

Had to be a sophomore with a 2.75 gpa to have a car permit.

The Shack

And last but not least..... Hinkson Creek ! A great place to fall in love.